helot

[ˈhɛlət]

helot Definition

a member of a class of serfs in ancient Sparta, intermediate in status between slaves and citizens..

Using helot: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "helot" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The helots were required to give half of their produce to their Spartan masters.

  • Example

    The helots were often treated cruelly by the Spartans.

  • Example

    The helots revolted against their Spartan overlords several times throughout history.

helot Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for helot

Phrases with helot

  • the social and political system in ancient Sparta that relied on the labor of helots

    Example

    The Spartan helot system was a key factor in the city-state's military success.

  • an uprising of the helots against their Spartan masters

    Example

    The helot revolt of 464 BC was one of the largest and most violent uprisings in ancient Greek history.

  • the social class of helots in ancient Sparta

    Example

    The helot class was the largest and lowest social class in ancient Sparta.

Origins of helot

from Greek 'heilotes', meaning 'captives'

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Summary: helot in Brief

A 'helot' [ˈhɛlət] was a member of a class of serfs in ancient Sparta, intermediate in status between slaves and citizens. They were required to give half of their produce to their Spartan masters and were often treated cruelly. The Spartan helot system relied on the labor of helots and was a key factor in the city-state's military success.